The Prisoner in His Palace by Will Bardenwerper

Review by Tom Cummins

The Short 

The story of Saddam’s final months in US custody and his surprising impact on his captors.

The Long 

The American perspective on Saddam Hussein is heavily influenced by what we’ve been told by the press for years before and after our invasion of Iraq. The Prisoner in His Palace follows twelve American service members in their unique circumstances on deployment to Baghdad. Most expected to serve in combat positions and were crestfallen when they learned that their roles would be as prison guards. However, when they learn that their captor is the recently captured dictator of the country they occupy, opinions change. Saddam’s impact on the men is tangible, with some becoming such great companions that Saddam gifted his watch and other personal belongings to his captors in his final hours before execution. This book is full of background on Saddam, his impact on his guards, and their experience guarding a high value, confidential asset.

To read or not to read? 

This is a definite read. I learned a lot about Saddam’s early life and upbringing. The book demonstrates how getting to know someone on a personal level often humanizes them, even if they are a violent, brutal dictator.